Phra That Klang Nam
Phra That Klang Nam is a revered Buddhist stupa situated in the Mekong River between Thailand and Laos, making it one of the more visually striking and spiritually significant sites in the Nong Khai region. The chedi is submerged for much of the year but emerges from the river during the dry season when water levels drop, drawing both devout pilgrims and curious travellers who come to witness this unusual natural and cultural phenomenon. Its position in the middle of the river gives it an almost otherworldly quality, and the surrounding landscape of the Mekong adds considerable atmosphere to any visit. Visitors can view the stupa from the riverbanks of Nong Khai town, and during the dry season it may be possible to reach it more closely depending on water levels. The site carries deep religious meaning for local Buddhists, and the atmosphere is calm and contemplative. It is worth noting that the listing address places it within Nong Khai province rather than Udon Thani proper, so travellers should plan accordingly. Good to know: the best time to visit is during the cool dry season, roughly between November and February, when the river is at its lowest and the stupa is most visible. Modest, respectful clothing is advisable given the religious significance of the site. No website or confirmed opening hours are available, so visitors are advised to check locally before making a dedicated trip.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Phra That Klang Nam, round out your day in Udon Thani with contrasting stops nearby.
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A well-known Vietnamese-Thai restaurant on the Mekong riverside in Nong Khai, open daily for lunch and dinner.
Phra That Klang Nam: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phra That Klang Nam worth visiting?
Phra That Klang Nam holds a 4.6★ rating from 588 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Udon Thani.
When is the best time to visit Phra That Klang Nam?
The best months to visit Udon Thani are December – February (Red Lotus Sea blooms Dec–Feb), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January (lotus season weekends) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (peak heat).
Where is Phra That Klang Nam located?
Phra That Klang Nam is at VQX8+WP7 แม่น้ำ โขง, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Chang Wat Nong Khai 43000, Thailand, in Udon Thani. Getting around Udon Thani: Songthaews on numbered city routes (฿10–15); Grab and metered taxis in the city.
Location Info
VQX8+WP7 แม่น้ำ โขง, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Chang Wat Nong Khai 43000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
December – February (Red Lotus Sea blooms Dec–Feb)
Avoid: March – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
19°C – 35°C(66°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January (lotus season weekends)
Getting there
Udon Thani Airport (UTH) has frequent Bangkok flights (~65 min). The overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Nong Khai stops here (~9 hrs); buses from Mo Chit take 7–8 hours. Vientiane (Laos) is 80 km via the Friendship Bridge.
Getting around
- •Songthaews on numbered city routes (฿10–15)
- •Grab and metered taxis in the city
- •Minivans and trains to Nong Khai (55 km, ~1 hr)
- •Rental car for the Red Lotus Sea and Ban Chiang (both ~50 km out)
Where to stay near Phra That Klang Nam
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places

Wat Phrathat Lanong / Wat Phra That Khlang Nam (Sunken Chedi)
A partially submerged chedi rising from the Mekong River, offering a rare and atmospheric glimpse into Nong Khai's history.

Wat Siri Maha Katchai
A respected Buddhist temple in Nong Khai province, open daily for worship and quiet contemplation.

Wat Pho Chai Phra Aram Luang
A revered Buddhist temple in Nong Khai housing an ornate gold sitting Buddha and intricate wall art.

Naga Statue
A striking mythological serpent statue in Nong Khai, open around the clock for visitors and locals alike.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A towering all-wood monument in Pattaya, hand-carved without nails and still under construction after decades.
Where to stay near Phra That Klang Nam
Find hotels in Udon Thani on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
December – February (Red Lotus Sea blooms Dec–Feb)
Avoid: March – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
19°C – 35°C(66°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January (lotus season weekends)
Getting there
Udon Thani Airport (UTH) has frequent Bangkok flights (~65 min). The overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Nong Khai stops here (~9 hrs); buses from Mo Chit take 7–8 hours. Vientiane (Laos) is 80 km via the Friendship Bridge.
Getting around
- •Songthaews on numbered city routes (฿10–15)
- •Grab and metered taxis in the city
- •Minivans and trains to Nong Khai (55 km, ~1 hr)
- •Rental car for the Red Lotus Sea and Ban Chiang (both ~50 km out)